If you keep baking soda in the kitchen, chances are you only use it for one thing: Baking. But baking soda has many other uses, so here are a few things you may not know about this versatile powder.
Also known as sodium bicarbonate (or bicarbonate of soda), baking soda is a chemical compound used for thousands of years. In nature, the mineral is one of the components of natron, which the ancient Egyptians used in applications as diverse as soap making, preserving foods – and mummification! As a natural but powerful absorbent and cleaning agent, baking soda is an alternative to chemical detergents and other household products.
Sprinkle the dry powder on kitchen or bathroom surfaces before scrubbing – you can also add scent with a few drops of essential oil – tea tree oil is particularly effective as it also has anti-bacterial qualities.
In combination with cider vinegar, it creates an effective cleaner that will shift anything – use it for unblocking a slow drain, or to shifting baked-in grime from the inside of an oven.
Pots, pans or baking trays with burnt-on food benefit from soaking for 15 minutes in hot water with baking soda – the dirt wipes off easily after soaking.
Use as a natural carpet cleaner – just sprinkle the powder onto the carpet and leave for 15 minutes before vacuuming up.
Baking soda makes an effective and natural toothpaste. Blend together six parts baking soda plus one part sea salt into a paste and apply to your teeth and gums.
A pinch of baking soda mixed with water makes an effective deodorant, and is a natural alternative for those whose skin is irritated by the commercially sold deodorants. On a similar theme, you can even sprinkle baking soda into your shoes as a natural deodoriser.
Add half a cup of baking soda to your bathwater for a soothing bath, which also helps to relieve discomfort from sunburn and makes for a soothing foot soak.